UPDATE: After our story ran we have been contacted by many people who want to help this family. At this time we do not have a list of specific needs. And there could be a problem with storage space. Autauga County Sheriff Joe Sedinger will be accepting donations at his office Monday, and they will get into the right hands. We would suggest generic gift cards for now, so the family can get exactly what they need. Thank you for those offering assistance to this family. We will update when we have more information to share. Thank you for your beautiful hearts! – Sarah
BY SARAH STEPHENS
ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
Photo: Fire personnel and first responders stand by as a crew searches through the rubble of a house fire Saturday
AUTAUGA COUNTY: A trailer home on Rocky Hollow Lane and its contents were destroyed Saturday afternoon, but the young family that lived there is safe. However, that critical information wasn’t known right away by responding firefighters and law enforcement personnel.
It would be sometime before first responders were able to begin digging through the rubble, and there was no word from the family. Many anxious phone calls were made to one of the residents’ cell phone, with no answer.
As a crew began digging through what was left, hoping they would not find any victims, a man came running towards the first responders and dropped to his knees as he looked at what was left of the home. He was immediately surrounded by first responders and those gathered. He gave great news that no one had been home and he had two children and the mother with him.
The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time.
During those anxious minutes before anyone knew the fate of the residents, Autauga County Sheriff Joe Sedinger stood with other first responders and officials as the fire crew worked their way through the smoldering debris. As the news spread that all were safe a smile spread cross Sedinger’s face. “That is the answer to a lot of prayers,” he said.
Nearby, family and friends were consoling a four-year-old boy who was realizing his home, and his toys, were gone. “We can get you more toys, son,” Sheriff Sedinger said.
Fire Departments responding included Marbury, Pine Level, Autauga County Rescue and Old Kingston.
If anyone hears of specific needs of the family, please contact the Elmore/Autauga News at [email protected]. I am quite willing to believe our readers would love to help this young family replace some of what was lost. And maybe even a toy or two.
